FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 8, 2026
Media Contact: Khali Gallman
Phone: 803.922.5310
Email: kgallman@thinkfsc.com
City of Orangeburg Reports Significant Decline in Overall Crime Through September 2026
Overall crime is down more than 34 percent, while ODPS remains focused on violent crime, domestic violence and motor vehicle related offenses
The Orangeburg Department of Public Safety (ODPS) has reported an overall decline in crime during the first nine months of 2026, with several key crime categories showing notable decreases compared to the same period in 2025.
According to the January – September 2025/2026 comparison, overall crime in the City of Orangeburg is down by more than 34 percent as of October 1. The report includes completed incident reports and examines crime totals by incident type as well as crimes against persons and property.
Property crime decreased by an average of 16 percent, while violent crime categories also reflected decreases. The report notes violent crime at 9 percent lower in its crime-by-type comparison and a 39 percent decrease within its violent-and-property-crime analysis.
While the overall numbers reflect positive movement, ODPS continues to closely monitor areas where additional attention is needed. High-volume property crimes involving motor vehicles increased by an average of approximately 6 percent compared to 2025. Aggravated assaults involving handguns also remain a concern. During the January through September 2026 reporting period, incidents in which a handgun was presented, pointed or fired at another person accounted for approximately 26 percent of all aggravated assaults.
Domestic Violence is another area of particular concern. Approximately 34 percent of reported assaults during the 2026 period were associated with domestic violence, compared to approximately 19 percent during the same period in 2025.
“While we are encouraged to see overall crime moving in the right direction, we cannot allow declining percentages to create a false sense that our work is finished,” said Chief Charles P. Austin, Sr, director, Orangeburg Department of Public Safety. “There is no acceptable level of crime in Orangeburg. Every incident represents a person, a family or a neighborhood that has been impacted. We will continue using data, proactive policing, community partnerships and targeted enforcement to address the areas where we are seeing concerns, particularly gun violence, domestic violence and crimes involving motor vehicles.”
ODPS credits continued collaboration between law enforcement and the community as an important component of its public safety efforts. The department encourages residents to remain vigilant, secure vehicles and personal property, report suspicious activity and continue communicating with law enforcement about concerns in their neighborhoods.
“The numbers are important, because they help us identify trends and determine where our resources are needed most,” Austin added. “However, our goal goes beyond statistics. We want every resident, business owner and visitor to feel safe in the City of Orangeburg, and we will continue working toward that goal every day.”
OPDS will continue to monitor crime trends and use available data to guide enforcement strategies, prevention initiatives and community engagement efforts throughout the city.
For more information, contact ODPS General Information at 803.531.4654 or email info@orangeburgdps.org.
About the City of Orangeburg
Orangeburg, located in the heart of South Carolina, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and strong sense of community. The home of two award-winning universities, Orangeburg has served a pivotal role in the education of the nation’s leaders in various industries. Affectionately known as “The Garden City,” the city is committed to enhancing the quality of life for its residents through progressive initiatives, investment in infrastructure, and fostering local partnerships. Visit https://www.orangeburg.sc.us/ for more information.
